The House System

Belonging, Identity and Community

The House System is central to the culture and ethos of Drayton Manor High School. It develops a strong sense of belonging, identity and community, ensuring that every student has opportunities to participate, lead and contribute throughout their time at the school.

Every student belongs to one of our four Houses and remains a member of that House throughout their journey at Drayton Manor. This creates lasting connections across year groups, fosters House pride and provides a supportive community in which students can thrive. Through the House System, students are encouraged to embody our core values of Ambition, Character and Civic Virtue, both within school and beyond.

PARTICIPATION AND ENRICHMENT

The House System provides a wide range of opportunities for students to become involved in school life outside the classroom. Each half term, a programme of House events and competitions is published, offering activities that appeal to a variety of interests, talents and strengths.

Students can take part in sporting competitions, debates, quizzes, literacy and numeracy challenges, baking competitions, creative arts events and many other enrichment activities. House activities are also linked to key events in the school calendar and support whole-school initiatives such as Resilience Week and other personal development programmes.

By participating in House events, students develop teamwork, confidence, resilience and a willingness to contribute positively to the wider school community.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

The House System provides meaningful leadership opportunities for students across all year groups. Student leaders play an important role in promoting participation, organising events and strengthening House spirit throughout the school.

House Captains are students who consistently demonstrate the school's values through their actions and commitment to others. They act as role models within their House, helping to organise activities, encourage participation and represent the views of their peers.

Through these leadership opportunities, students develop valuable skills including communication, organisation, teamwork, responsibility and service.

CHARITY AND CIVIC VIRTUE

A key feature of the House System is its commitment to service and community engagement. Each House supports a local charity, chosen with input from student leaders. Students organise fundraising events and awareness campaigns with the aim of developing a deeper understanding of the causes they support while making a meaningful contribution to the local community.

This work helps students develop a sense of social responsibility and reinforces the importance of Civic Virtue by encouraging them to make a positive difference to the lives of others.

HOUSE POINTS AND RECOGNITION

Students earn House points through participation in competitions, positive contributions to school life, excellent attendance and consistently demonstrating the school's values.

At the end of each term, the school celebrates House achievements and recognises the efforts of individuals and teams. Results from House competitions, attendance and rewards contribute towards the awarding of the prestigious House Cup.

The House Cup recognises not only success, but also commitment, participation and contribution to the Drayton Manor community. It reflects the collective effort of students working together to support their House and make a positive impact on school life.

A COMMUNITY FOR EVERY STUDENT

Above all, the House System ensures that every student feels known, valued and connected. Whether participating in competitions, taking on leadership responsibilities, supporting charitable causes or celebrating House successes, students become part of a community that encourages them to aim high, contribute positively and take pride in their school.